Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Endorses DILG's Strict Enforcement of Public Order Laws
In a strong show of support for national directives, Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Ma. Cynthia "Cindi" King-Chan has publicly backed the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla's orders to the Philippine National Police (PNP). The directives target a range of public disturbances, including street drinking, excessive videoke sessions, indecent exposure, and curfew violations.
Mayor Chan's Commitment to Local Compliance
In a message to SunStar Cebu on Monday, April 6, 2026, Mayor Chan emphasized that the city government fully supports these guidelines. She noted that curfew regulations for minors have been consistently and strictly enforced in Lapu-Lapu City. Additionally, she highlighted that existing local laws already limit videoke operations to 10:00 PM, as outlined in City Ordinance 117-2002 and City Ordinance 226, which prohibit karaoke, videoke, and other sound systems from operating beyond this hour.
DILG's 'Safer Cities Initiative' Aims for Nationwide Impact
During a press conference on the same day, Secretary Remulla announced the launch of the "Safer Cities Initiative," designed to make the Philippines safer for its citizens. He clarified that the Anti Public Intoxication Act bans drinking on streets, setting up chairs and tables for gatherings in public areas, and other related activities. "Just to be clear, meron tayong Anti Public Intoxication Act. Bawal na ang mag-inom sa kalye, bawal na ang maglatag ng mga silya at mga lamesa sa mga kalye at mag-inuman. Doon nanggagaling number one ang away at number two ang sexual harassment," Remulla stated.
He also addressed issues of public decency, stating, "Bawal na ang walang t-shirt na lalaki na palakad lakad sa kalye. Bawal na, it is an act civility na magbihis naman kayo habang nasa kalye. Kapag kayo ay walang suot na t-shirt at nakahubad palakad-lakad, kahit gaano kainit mag sando man lang kayo. Bawal na po yan."
Expanding Enforcement Across Key Cities
The initiative includes strict enforcement of curfews for minors under 18 years old and karaoke sessions. Remulla explained that most local government units (LGUs) nationwide already implement a curfew from 10:00 PM to 4:00 AM for minors, with karaoke allowed only until 10:00 PM. "Hindi lang para sa Metro Manila ito. Trial ito sa Metro Manila this month, susunod Cebu, Baguio, Bacolod, Davao lahat ng lugar na yan we will make the Philippines safer. This is the safer streets initiative, makakaasa po kayo na ang krimen ay bababa," he assured.
To ensure compliance, Remulla plans to issue a memorandum directing LGUs to create ordinances that support this initiative. Under this framework, the PNP has been ordered to deploy additional police officers on the streets, particularly in areas with high foot traffic, to enable swift responses to crimes.
Enhanced Patrols in Nightlife Hotspots
Remulla also discussed intensified patrols in party and nightlife districts in the capital region, specifically targeting areas in Manila, Quezon City, BGC, and Makati. This move aims to curb criminal activities and maintain public safety in these bustling zones, reinforcing the broader goals of the Safer Cities Initiative.
